Whether you're looking for scenery, fun, adventure, a romantic getaway, or just a place to relax and unwind, you'll find it somewhere in Texas. Caverns, forests, cliffs, beaches, and even mysterious lights in the sky, Texas is a treasure chest of attractions.
Twenty-five percent of Texas terrain is karst, a paradise to geologists, paleontologists, archaeologists, photographers and spelunkers. Caverns that are open to the public attract
many tourists. These underground sanctuaries naturally maintain a constant near-room temperature year round. Some areas are wheelchair accessible, while a few offer 'wild cave tours' for the adventurous, with no trails or electric lights, and visitors, carrying flashlights, must be lowered into some passages by rope.
Continuing westward, Garner State Park encompasses canyons, streams, cliffs, and ten acres of riverfront. Enjoy river tubing, pedal boats, swimming, golfing, nature trails with an abundance of wildlife, bike riding, dancing, and a Cowboy Sunset Serenade. Facilities include campsites, screened shelters and cabins, a dining hall, and shower and laundry facilities. Note - pets are not allowed inside any of the buildings.
If you enjoy a good mystery, head to Marfa to see the famous Marfa Lights.. Various explanations for the mysterious, dancing lights range from 'ghosts of conquistadores' to the more scientific 'mirage caused by atmospheric conditions.' They can be seen on clear nights about nine miles east of Marfa on U.S. Highway 90 between Marfa and Paisano Pass.
A few miles south of Marathon, on 385, civilization vanishes as you enter Big Bend country. Across the cactus studded landscape, rock peaks and jagged cliffs reach into a clear sky. Big Bend offers a sense of freedom and wildness to those seeking escape from the stresses of modern life. Enjoy the quiet solitude of the Chisos Mountains or ride the Rio Grande River rapids.
When you're ready to return to civilization, head to Houston and visit the Johnson Space Center. See astronauts training for upcoming missions. Make reservations for a level 9 tour and see things only the astronauts see and eat where and what they eat. See a presentation, dotted with humor, of how astronauts carry out daily activities in a space environment.
Just 30 minutes south takes you to Galveston with its art galleries, museums, horse and carriage rides, and historic homes including the Bishop's Palace. You will find 36 blocks of shopping, 1800's architecture, restaurants, and nightclubs on the famous Strand. Head for the beach to enjoy surfing, golfing, volleyball, feeding the gulls, or just relax. You can even book a Gulf cruise.
Next door is the little town of Kemah which is quickly becoming a favorite seaside resort. Kemah offers themed restaurants, bay cruises, novelty shopping, waterfront entertainment, exciting Boardwalk activities, and accommodations from the luxurious to the laid-back.
This article first appeared on Suite101.com.
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